A.O. Taekwondo Club Safeguarding Policy
Protecting Children, Young People & Adults at Risk
Our Commitment
At A.O. Taekwondo Club, we are dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive, and respectful environment for all members. Safeguarding is a shared responsibility, and we take proactive steps to protect children, young people, and adults at risk from harm, abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
Who This Policy Covers
This safeguarding policy applies to:
All club members, coaches, volunteers, staff, and visitors
All training sessions, events, and communications under the A.O. Taekwondo name
Safeguarding Children & Young People
The welfare of the child is paramount
All children have the right to protection from abuse
All concerns will be taken seriously and acted upon swiftly
Our Approach
DBS Checks for all instructors and volunteers working with children
Code of Conduct outlining expected behaviour for adults and children
Safeguarding Training for staff and volunteers
Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) to handle concerns confidentially
Parental Involvement encouraged at all stages
Safeguarding Adults at Risk
Adults have the right to live free from abuse and neglect
Consent and autonomy are respected
Support is tailored to individual needs
Our Approach
Recognising Abuse: Training to identify signs of harm
Empowerment: Encouraging adults to speak up and make informed choices
Confidentiality: Sensitive handling of all information
Referral Pathways: Clear routes to external support agencies
Designated Safeguarding Lead
If you have any concerns, please contact our DSL:
Alex Overy
Email: train@aotkd.com
Reporting Concerns
We encourage all members to report concerns – no matter how small. You can:
Speak directly to our DSL
Submit an anonymous safeguarding form
Contact external agencies (e.g. NSPCC, Local Authority)
Policy Review
This policy is reviewed annually or following any significant safeguarding incident or legal update.
Next Review Date: 1st September 2026
Designated Safeguarding Leaders Team
Our Safeguarding Leaders are trusted members of A.O. Taekwondo Club, trained to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone in our community. They are the first point of contact for any safeguarding concerns and are committed to creating a secure, respectful environment for children, young people, and adults at risk.
What They Do:
Respond to safeguarding concerns with discretion and care
Liaise with parents, carers, and external agencies when needed
Promote best practices in child protection and adult safeguarding.
Ensure all Instructors and volunteers are aware of safeguarding procedures
Mr Alex Overy
Lead Safeguarding Officer
With extensive experience in youth sport and child protection, Alex Overy leads our safeguarding efforts with professionalism and empathy.
Email: train@aotkd.com
MRs Jo Worthington
Deputy Safeguarding Officer
A long-standing member of the club, Jo Worthington supports the club’s safeguarding efforts by helping respond to concerns, promoting safe practices, and ensuring all members feel welcome and protected. Approachable and attentive, they’re a key part of our commitment to safety and inclusion.
Email: jo@joworthington.co.uk
MRs Suzi Todhunter
Assistant Safeguarding Officer
A long-standing member of the club, Suzi Todhunter supports supports the safeguarding team and ensures our policies are upheld during training and events. Friendly and reliable, they play an essential role in upholding our club’s safeguarding standards.
Email: suzi@studiorepublic.com
Trusted Safeguarding Resources
Expert Guidance Beyond the Club
For additional support and up-to-date safeguarding advice, we recommend exploring these trusted organisations. Whether you’re a parent, coach, or club member, these resources offer practical tools to help protect children and adults in sport.